Smart, Rapid-Response Jettison System for Helmet Mounted Displays

Modern combat aircraft use advanced human interface technology, such as Helmet Mounted Display Systems (HMDS), which give crewmembers increased situational awareness. However, such systems also add weight to a helmet, which increases the risk of injury in the event of a crash or ejection due to the change in inertia and aerodynamics of the crewmember. To counter this problem, mechanical release systems that disengage under high acceleration were developed. However, accelerations during air combat maneuvers (ACM) can approach or exceed those felt during an ejection or crash (EC) event. Simple mechanical releases cannot differentiate between these situations, and therefore may disengage the HMDS during ACM or normal operation. CRG proposes a unique sensor and algorithm system to distinguish between the two scenarios and create a jettison system that only releases during ejection/crash. This involves innovative sensor positioning allowing a faster reaction time than current helmet mounted sensors alone. Combined stimuli sensing, which takes advantage of the change in environment during EC, can be used to differentiate between the two scenarios, leading to minimization of false positive release. Incorporating rapid-response, micro sensors and actuators will enable this technology in a compact, self-contained package, requiring no aircraft modification. BENEFIT: Operational Benefits:   (1)  Reduction of injury during ejection or crash when using a HMDS,  (2)  Reduction of unwanted release during combat maneuvers, and  (3)  requires no aircraft modification.   Commercial Applications:   (1)  Miniature automobile crash recognition sense and respond,  (2)  High-adventure recreation safety, and (3)  commercial and general aviation.